I have been back from vacation for five days, and still haven’t turned my machine on. I have done a little bit more cross stitching and mended a hole in a sock. I have been putting away future projects that magically arrived while I was away for three weeks. I just couldn’t resist a bargain. I received a few new kits and a wholesale order with a roll of batting. A few new patterns, including the Mad Quilt Party from Art East Quilting Co. , two Elizabeth Hartman patterns and two others. I was shocked that the freight on my roll of batting and one bolt of fabric was 128.00. I am going to order it from Linda’s from now on, as they offer free shipping and with their sales it’s less than what I pay wholesale. BTW – how can that be???

I am really excited about this quilt, I want to make it for myself, with my own scrappy fabric choices. Who knows when I will, but getting the pattern is a step in the right direction. I also got a Log Cabin quilt kit from Modern Prairie. MP is a new to me online shop that is owned and run by Mellisa Gilbert of Little House on the Prairie fame. I saw the quilt kit on another blog, and went to check it out. it was quite affordable with a welcome discount and free shipping. The fabric line is so pretty, Evening on the Prairie, from Riley Blake. This is one for the shop.

I did start up the long arm yesterday and “remembered” how to use it. I got one border done, and need to finish this Starburst quilt this weekend. I have three custom quilts that are being dropped off next week. Two new customers and one repeat. It’s funny how I will go months without any custom quilts and then bang here’s three this week.

I also bought some P-leather to make a few handbags with. The product looks nice, sort of a pebbled look, I am wondering how it will wear with use. I have some ultra suede around here somewhere too. I am also thinking of combining it with some printed cork fabric I have. I got a cute round bag pattern from Sallie Tomato called Gwen. It reminds me of the old style canteens from the 1900’s. I might need some hardware, maybe a matching zipper. Lastly, I need to make two more cushions for a fireplace hearth. I ordered the fabric and zips for those, they should be here next week. I did put a few stitches into the Mermaid x-stitch, but the Berries project I took with me didn’t get much sewn on it. So I have lots to do, and lots to use up. Time to knuckle down and do some sewing.

Be Kind.